Submitted by andrea.buckley on Tue, 07/19/2016 - 09:35
Type of Pilot Project:
Public Service
Describe Project and Impact:
Current library members host parties in their home to attract new members
Project Description and Expected Outcomes:
InterReach program that would allow current members of the library to host events in their home for friends/family in their social network who are not current members. Depending on space, event hosts could set up a "pop up library" in their home. Attendees could sign up for new library cards on site and check out books and other materials. To add a playful learning component, create an atmosphere of fun for adults related to books and other materials - almost like school book fairs for adults. Also creates an opportunity to talk about Friends of the Library and sign up members.
Why should we select this project?:
When I tell people I work at the library, I hear almost all of the time: "I love the library, I just never seem to get to go." This framework allows people to learn about the library in a friendly environment that is inside their comfort zone. Hopefully, they will have so much fun, they will turn into turbo-users of the library.
Constraints, Limitations, or Dependencies:
Potential liability issues for event associated with library being held offsite in other people's homes. Staff time and resources to help with planning the event.
Source of Inspiration:
This idea is a combination of law enforcement's National Night Out and a home fundraiser. There is a saying in resource development, that people give [money] to people. In a similar way, people are not going to sign up for a library card because we say the library is cool. But if a friend says I love the library, come to my house this Friday night and see what it's all about, people may be more persuaded.
